looking for something new to build and using an side charging upper came to mind. I have read the pro’s vs con’s of them. if you use one is it something you would purchase and use again?
While I like the side chargers on my AKs and ACR, I don’t think I would want to go that direction with an AR, particularly when there are already the BCM (and similar) CHs that make it so easy to one finger charge. Altering the manual of arms on such a known quantity as an AR seems a little counter productive. That said, I have BAD levers on all my ARs… So yeah, maybe I’m just picking and choosing… 
I agree with what you are saying. my OCD says keep them all the same, the other side says lets do something different.
I picked up a Bearcreek side charger last year out of curiosity, as well. It’s cool, but I haven’t felt it’s worth going with over a standard charging upper, unless it is for hunting. The side charger does make loading while shouldered possible.
I looked at maybe getting one of those on a whim back when they came out. I didn’t follow through because I wasn’t sure if the quality matched the cost. How does it feel vs. other ARs in terms of solid performance/quality of build?
The upper is certainly more robust (thicker and heavier) than your typical receiver and is machined exceptionally well. Aside from this notable difference, the quality and tolerances of all other parts on my upper seem to be right there with any other entry-level company’s products. I also get sub-moa accuracy with my particular 350 legend upper. They are most definitely standard, mil-spec level components, but not at all sub-par quality. You are getting what you pay for, without the mark-up as most companies do on entry-level rifles. Overall, I am happy with my upper from them, and it was certainly worth the price.
All that being said, I would still go with a PSA upper if they had a side charger to choose between. It’s hard to beat anything PSA made for the price.
I appreciate the info and help.
I bought a PSA side charge a few years back. I use it primarily for 3 gun. Runs great and I get sub moa with my 18" 223 wylde chamber stainless barrel. If they offer them again, I would buy another.
After much experience in the service with an M1A, an M14, and an AK47, AR’s were awkward getting used to. When side charging AR uppers came on the market, I couldn’t wait to try them - so my 7.62x51 and 6.5 Grendel uppers are side charging, while my 7.62x39 rifle and 5.56 pistol are rear charging. Variety is the spice of life!
If you decide on getting a side charging upper make sure to T-tape the plug for the charge handle channel. At minimum put on an o-ring. Mine arrived with an o-ring installed but I also T-taped it anyway. Some ppl don’t think of this and get pissed when they get a little gas to the face… I guess I’d be pissed if someone let loose some gas to my face too 
I’ve seen some at my local dealer and really like the look. Not sure on benefit other than preference. But I do think I will try side charging upper for my next build. I’m a lefty and it helped me I liked it for the one I cycled.
Thats exactly where my concern lies, is this as reliable as the basic rear charging set up and if there are any other issues or concerns with a side charging setup, such as which parts are interchangeable and if most manufactures are using the same specs.
I have a PSA side charger upper from a few years back (I’m guessing it’s a BCA as it appears identical to the BCA a friend has). It works fine and the side charging handle is easy to work. It would probably be especially good for someone use to AKs or other type with similar side charging handles.
I love my new AR pistol with side charger. I was on the fence with the side charger now I am hooked.
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Good info! I just received an upper, looking forward to putting some rounds through it!
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I have a bear creek side charging upper in 556 and 16”. I don’t mind it at all. Makes it where it runs just like my VR60 which is also side charging. I’ve been planning to get an AR pistol next and I’m not sure which way I will go, but I certainly don’t dislike the side charging aspect.
I’m interested in putting together an 18" 6.5 Grendel upper. My girlfriend likes AKs and is left-handed, so she’s working towards either a 450 Bushmaster or a 350 Legend with a left-ejecting side charger. For both of us, it’s more about the uniqueness, and less about the function, when it comes to side chargers.
You don’t really have many options in a nonreciprocating side charging upper. I am not sure about the few that exist. I know gibbz arms has had one available for awhile.
New Frontier Armory in Nevada also sells a non-reciprocating upper, it’s probably made by Gibbz though, it looks identical to a gen 2 Gibbz upper.